Thailand remains one of the world’s top travel destinations—beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, great food, and warm hospitality. If you’re planning to visit in 2025, there are a few updated rules and important tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Here’s a helpful guide to Thailand’s travel requirements in 2025.
1. Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
One of the biggest changes for travelers in 2025 is the introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
As of May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand via air, land, or sea must submit the TDAC online before arrival.
The form must be completed within 72 hours (three days) before your scheduled arrival.
Information required includes passport details, your travel itinerary and accommodation, recent travel history, and basic health questions.
This replaces the old paper TM6 arrival card. If you forget to complete the TDAC, you may face delays or issues entering the country.
2. Visa & Immigration Rules
Understanding what visa you need is essential. Rules vary depending on your nationality and the length of your stay.
Many nationalities qualify for visa exemption or visa-free entry for tourism, typically up to 60 days, which may be extended.
If you’re not eligible for visa exemption, you may need a Tourist Visa or apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA).
Depending on your nationality or purpose, there may be multiple-entry visa options.
3. Passport & Validity Requirements
To avoid problems at immigration, make sure your passport and documentation are in order.
4. Health & Vaccination
Thailand has relaxed many of its pandemic-era restrictions, but there are still health requirements to keep in mind.
COVID-19 vaccination proof is no longer required for entry as of 2025.
However, if you are arriving from (or via) a country with Yellow Fever risk, you may need proof of vaccination.
5. Proof of Funds, Accommodation & Onward Travel
To comply with immigration requirements, it’s often necessary to show certain documents.
You may be asked to provide proof of accommodation (hotel or villa booking) during your stay.
Some travelers might also need to show proof of onward or return flight.
Occasionally, proof of sufficient funds for your stay is requested by immigration officials.
6. Other Travel Tips & Considerations
Here are a few extra tips to help avoid any hiccups during your trip:
Check for legal entry points: Make sure your border crossing (if entering by land) is open, and accepts the TDAC system.
Watch for scams: There are fake websites offering “TDAC services” for a fee. Use only official government portals.
Stay updated: Rules can change, especially relating to health or visa policies. Always confirm information with your local Thai embassy or consulate.
Currency & payment: Thai baht is the local currency. Credit cards and cash are needed in different places—bring some cash, especially in islands or remote areas.
Respect local laws & culture: Dress codes for temples, behaviour in public, and local norms should be observed to avoid trouble.
7. What These Requirements Mean for Travelers & Property Guests
For you, as a traveler or guest of a villa, hotel, or resort in Thailand:
Booking in advance: Have your accommodation and travel itinerary sorted so you can complete the TDAC and show anything asked by border control.
Flexibility: Some of the newer rules (like visa exemptions or TDAC) reduce friction in travel, but you must still plan ahead.
Ease for property owners & management: Properties that help guests through these processes—providing clear check-in instructions, confirming bookings, offering flights/accommodation receipts—gain a better reputation and often smoother stays.
Conclusion
Thailand has made its travel process more streamlined in 2025, especially with the new Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). But to ensure a hassle-free entry, travelers should stay on top of visa rules, passport validity, and required documents like proof of accommodation. With these requirements met, you’ll be free to enjoy everything Thailand has to offer—its beaches, culture, food, and warm hospitality—without unexpected issues.